Punjab CM praises authorities for safe Basant festival

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif delivered a heartfelt speech on Monday evening, praising authorities for successfully organizing the “safe Basant” festival held over the weekend in Lahore. Her remarks were aired live and broadcast across the province, highlighting the collaborative efforts of various departments to ensure the event’s success.

In her congratulatory address, she expressed deep gratitude towards 15 departments under Punjab’s administration, especially commending the Punjab Inspector General Rao Abdul Kareem, Lahore Capital City Police Officer Bilal Kamyana, and Lahore Deputy Inspector General Operations Faisal Kamran. These officials were praised for their diligent work during the three-day Basant celebration.

Maryam also expressed delight that citizens had adhered to standard operating procedures, installing safety rods on their bikes to protect against injuries from kite strings. She emphasized that this was a significant improvement in public behavior and law enforcement compliance, noting how many people now saw such safety measures as crucial for protection. “It was a positive change,” she said, adding that it had made people realize the importance of following safety protocols.

She further commended Punjab’s top officials for their real-time monitoring efforts during the festival. Maryam also acknowledged the contributions from Lahore Commissioner Maryam Khan and deputy and assistant commissioners in keeping vigil on rule violations. Additionally, she thanked the Punjab Information and Technology Board for utilizing technology to enhance management of the event.

Maryam highlighted the roles played by traffic police in managing heavy traffic influxes and the Punjab Horticulture Authority in their “beautiful arrangements.” She also praised Lahore Electric Supply Company for ensuring that rescue teams were prepared to prevent accidents caused by people retrieving kites entangled in power lines.

In a broader perspective, Maryam expressed great satisfaction with how the festival had brought about positive changes within the community. “After so many years, it brings me happiness,” she remarked, adding that the event provided a much-needed respite from daily life’s challenges. She spoke of people putting aside their differences and coming together to celebrate as one nation.

The chief minister also addressed her earlier remarks praising Lahore residents for adhering to provincial government directives. However, following these statements, there were reports of at least 118 Basant-related accident cases, including six casualties—four from falls from rooftops and one each involving young boys trying to climb an electric pole or a tree to catch kites.

On Sunday night, another incident occurred when a young journalist died after falling from his house in the Sanda area. Despite these setbacks, Maryam maintained optimism about the positive impact of such events on society. She concluded by asserting that many people were visiting Lahore from across Pakistan to partake in this festive occasion. “Punjab is healing,” she declared, emphasizing how communities could overcome their troubles and come together as one nation.

She also pointed out how Gen Z members could break free from their screens and gadgets to enjoy the festival with their families, fostering a deeper connection with their cultural heritage and history. Maryam’s remarks underscored the significance of such events in promoting unity and cohesion among the populace.